Solar power in Zambia: ‘If it works for my neighbour, I’ll try it too’

Researcher Hillary Chanda discusses solar power with residents of Chongwe district, rural Zambia.

Despite abundant sunshine, over 94% of rural Zambians remain off-grid, with only 3.23% of the country’s installed capacity coming from solar energy. Our study explored the social, economic, and behavioural factors influencing rural solar adoption, introducing the Rural Development Stakeholder Hybrid Adoption Model (RUDSHAM) to highlight how local networks and peer influence can unlock solar uptake – offering a socially just, community-led pathway to tackle energy poverty and climate inequality.

This work promotes climate justice by showing how social learning, peer influence, and community engagement can accelerate equitable energy transitions in rural Africa. By leveraging trusted community networks and visible peer examples, rural households gain the confidence to adopt solar technologies – fostering environmental sustainability while addressing energy poverty and inequality at its roots.

Read the full article here.